The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 160

Olivia

The following morning dawned bright and clear. I was up early, reviewing my notes on the Thompson Hotels project and mentally preparing for our meeting with Andrew Thompson.

Alexander had arranged for us to meet at The Terraces, an exclusive restaurant in Beverly Hills known for its impeccable service and discretion.

I carefully selected a navy blue dress that was professional yet flattering. I paired it with modest heels and subtle jewelry, as I wanted to look poised and confident.

“Ready?” Alexander asked, appearing in the doorway of our bedroom. He looked impeccable in a charcoal suit that emphasized his broad shoulders.

I nodded, smoothing down my dress one last time.

Alexander’s eyes softened as he approached me. “You look beautiful. And more importantly, you know this project better than anyone. Thompson would be a fool to go with any other proposal.”

His confidence in me was reassuring. “Thanks. Let’s go show him that.”

The drive to The Terraces was quiet, and both of us were lost in our thoughts. The morning traffic moved surprisingly well, and we arrived at the restaurant with time to spare.

The Terraces lived up to its reputation. Lush greenery surrounded elegant outdoor seating areas, while the interior featured soaring ceilings and tasteful artwork. A host immediately recognized Alexander and led us to a private dining area with a view of the gardens.

“Mr. Carter,” Andrew Thompson rose from his seat as we approached, extending his hand. “Punctual as always.”

“Mr. Thompson,” Alexander greeted him with a firm handshake. “Thank you for meeting with us on such short notice.”

Andrew turned to me with a warm smile. “Mrs. Carter, lovely to see you again.”

take our

departed, “I was surprised to receive your

I wanted to speak with

eyebrows rose slightly. “News travels

smoothly. “Especially when

returned with our drinks, momentarily pausing the conversation. I took the opportunity to study Andrew’s

coffee. “We received an unexpected proposal from Penelope Langford. Quite comprehensive, I might

my shoulders. “I wasn’t aware Ms. Langford’s firm had expertise

admitted. “But she’s partnered with Horizon Media

jaw tightened almost

an alternative proposal?” I asked, keeping my tone curious rather than defensive. “I thought our presentation addressed all the concerns

“It did, Mrs. Carter. Your proposal was exceptional. But as

is part of any

considerations when changing direction after

look concerned. “We haven’t transferred the

interest of transparency, I wanted to discuss

appreciatively. “Always the straight shooter. That’s what I’ve always respected

up with a slightly apologetic expression. “Actually, I should mention that Penelope will be joining us shortly.

was clearly

smoothly. “In fact, I welcome

sip of my water, using the moment to compose myself. The idea of meeting Alexander’s ex–fiancée while defending my work wasn’t how

“The Thompson Hotels rebrand proposal

it is. Which is why I find myself

he finished speaking, movement near the entrance caught my attention. A woman was being escorted to our table by the

with practiced elegance, her hair falling in perfect waves around her shoulders. She wore a cream–colored designer suit and stilettos that added several